Cobb elections board adopts new public-comment rules, members urge keeping virtual access

The Cobb County Board of Elections voted unanimously (5–0) to adopt revised procedures for public comment that shorten the signup window, clarify posting requirements and add a cap of 15 virtual speakers (subject to board discretion).

Kendall, who presented the revisions, said changes include reducing the sign-up sheet availability from 30 to 15 minutes before a meeting, clarifying website posting timelines consistent with existing policy and adding language that speakers may forfeit remaining time.

During debate the chair told the public the county manager and communications director have indicated county-wide virtual public-comment support may be discontinued in 30 days. "I do support virtual public comment personally," the chair said, "but I was asked to eliminate that from our offerings" pending county decisions. Multiple board members and several public commenters urged preserving virtual access for voters with work, disability or caregiving barriers.

Public commenters had emphasized the value of virtual participation: Chatori Scott told the board, "I would like for [virtual public comment] not to be removed because I saw an uptick in the amount of votes and early voting from the younger community and as well as the older community." Board members encouraged residents unhappy with a potential removal to contact the Board of Commissioners.

The board adopted Exhibit B as written and recorded no opposition. The policy retains language allowing the board to offer a virtual option if the county makes the technology available in the future; the board asked staff to leave the virtual-option language in the policy so it can be reinstated if possible.

The decision: Exhibit B passed 5–0; the board will continue to press for accessibility options and urged the public to contact county leaders about preserving virtual comment.